Have you ever felt trapped, confined, stuck and cut off from any escape? Out of frustration, have you ever cried out “I just want to be free!”? Unfortunately, you simply don’t see that end in sight. Many of us feel imprisoned by the years of old habits, mixed feelings and emotions or addictions. Burdens that God never meant for us to carry. He longs for us to have the freedom that only He can give. The next are four steps you can take to get that everlasting freedom.
The first step to gaining freedom from bondage is acceptance. You have to accept God’s personal and unconditional love for you. No matter what burdens you bear, the Lord’s love for you is everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3). It does not matter the circumstances you are in. And there’s nothing that can separate us from Him (Romans 8:38-39).
Secondly, your step to freedom is all about forgiveness. You need to ask God to forgive and cleanse you from any sin in your life. Even sin that you don’t recognize as sin. Ask Him what sins you don’t realize and He will make it clear to you. It will surprise or hurt a little, but he will let you know. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9)(NKJV). Following His example, we must forgive others as well. Until you forgive those who have hurt and caused you pain, you will never experience true peace and freedom. As He teaches you about your sin, He will guide you to recognize the ones you need to forgive. Forgiveness isn’t for the person who wronged you-it’s for you. It’s all about your peace and freedom.
Thirdly, is to be honest with God about your feelings and weaknesses. He already knows how you feel and the things you are struggling with. But He longs for you to come to Him in prayer. He wants you to tell Him about the anxieties, worries and disappointments that you have had. He loves you so much and wants you to bring everything to Him. Philippians 4:6-7 says “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication (a humble prayer, a sincere petition), with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God…”(NKJV). The verse says to take “everything” to God in prayer. Although He already knows, He desires conversation with you. For you to tell Him all that is in your heart and mind. He loves you that much.
Finally, the step toward freedom is to go to God. Ask Him to help you see things from His point of view. He wants you to see your circumstances through His eyes. Our view on life would change drastically. It would be so different if we saw ourselves and our lives the way God sees them. God is your dearest Friend. He promises to care for you and supply for all your needs: Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:31-33; Psalm 34: 10.
Do you want true freedom in your life? Accept the immense love that the Lord has for you. You are deeply loved regardless of your situation. Let God show you, forgive you and cleanse you from your sin. Even The sin you don’t recognize. God will, lovingly, show you, so they can be dealt with and forgiven. Additionally, ask God to show you how it feels to forgive those who have wronged you. Next, be honest with God about your inner struggles and limitations. He loves you and wants you to know you can take everything to Him in prayer. Finally, ask God to show you how He views you and your situation. Once you see things through His eyes, you will see how He cares and provides for you. Things won’t look so discouraging when your views lines up with the Father’s. Taking these steps will give you the freedom that can only come from a loving God.